Pupils from Ryelands Primary School have taken part in a Junior Police Academy, organised by officers from the Woodside Safer Neighbourhoods Team.

The week long event for 59 year-six pupils began on Monday, May 16, and the children learnt how to carry out a police investigation and put that into practice by arresting somebody in a special scenario.

There were also visits from officers from the Met’s Mounted Branch and the Cycle Task Force who talked to the pupils about their work and what they do.

The pupils were briefed about personal safety and internet safety and were given a talk about the dangers of gangs by a representative from the St. Giles Trust.

The week culminated in a special “passing out parade”, which took place at the Croydon Arena stadium.

Police Constable Nick Lindsay, from the Woodside SNT said: “It was a fantastic week for us and the children and it was a really great way for us to address issues about personal safety, which will be affecting them as they move into secondary school next year.

“It’s important that we give young people as much support and advice as possible as they are amongst the most vulnerable in our society. Hopefully doing something like this will also help them later in life if they’re faced with difficult choices or situations.”

Head Teacher Ms Carmel Dolan added: “We are very proud of our Year 6, as well as having fun they learnt important lessons - particularly about personal safety. The week has also influenced some of their career choices.

“It was a great opportunity for the wider school community to work together - PC Lindsay and the Woodside team did a great job.”